Actresses Who Started as Models

It’s common for actors to start their careers in modeling, appearing in fashion shows or catalogs, before becoming movie stars. They often leverage their success as models to break into the competitive film and television industry. Though some actors initially faced doubts, many have gone on to win awards and build lasting careers. This path is now a popular choice for performers around the world who want to explore different creative opportunities.

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron started her career as a model, winning a contract in Italy at sixteen that took her from her native South Africa. After several years modeling in Europe and the US, she moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting. She made her film debut in ‘2 Days in the Valley’ as a tough assassin, and later earned an Academy Award for her incredible performance in ‘Monster’. Now, she’s known as a major star in both serious dramas and big-budget action films.

Gal Gadot

Gal Gadot first became well-known after winning Miss Israel in 2004 at just eighteen years old. Before pursuing acting, she worked as a model and completed her required military service. She landed her first major film role in the ‘Fast and Furious’ series, playing Gisele Yashar, but it was her role as Wonder Woman in the DC Extended Universe that made her a global star. Her experience with physical training and modeling proved valuable in handling the challenging action sequences in her films.

Milla Jovovich

Milla Jovovich started modeling professionally at age twelve after a photoshoot with Herb Ritts for a magazine. She quickly became a well-known face in the fashion world throughout the late eighties and early nineties. Her breakthrough acting role came with the science fiction film ‘The Fifth Element’, and she later became famous for starring in the ‘Resident Evil’ movie series. Directors appreciate her distinctive appearance and athletic skills, making her a popular choice for visually dynamic films.

Cameron Diaz

I always found Cameron Diaz’s story fascinating. She started modeling at sixteen, literally traveling the world for big brands while still a teenager. Then, completely out of the blue, she auditioned for ‘The Mask’ with Jim Carrey – and landed the lead role despite having no acting experience whatsoever! That movie was huge, and it really kicked off a decade where she was in all the biggest comedies. ‘There’s Something About Mary’ and the ‘Charlie’s Angels’ films made her a total star. Honestly, when people talk about successfully switching from modeling to acting, Cameron Diaz is always the first example that comes to mind – she really set the bar.

Monica Bellucci

Monica Bellucci started modeling as a way to finance her law studies at the University of Perugia, but she ultimately decided to pursue modeling full-time, moving to Milan to work with famous designers like Dolce & Gabbana. She first built a career in Italian films before gaining worldwide attention for her performance in ‘The Apartment’. American audiences then recognized her in films such as ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ and ‘The Passion of the Christ’. Bellucci is known for her sophisticated style and her talent for acting in different languages and genres.

Diane Kruger

Diane Kruger began her career as a successful model in Germany and France. Before becoming an actress, she competed in a major modeling contest and worked with many famous designers. An injury unfortunately prevented her from pursuing her dream of becoming a ballerina. She gained recognition for her role as Helen of Troy in the film ‘Troy’, which featured a cast of well-known actors. She was also highly praised for her work in Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Inglourious Basterds’. Kruger’s fluency in multiple languages has helped her build a varied career in films across Europe and the United States.

Rebecca Romijn

Rebecca Romijn began her career in the early 1990s as a swimsuit model, appearing on the covers of magazines worldwide. She became well-known through appearances in Victoria’s Secret fashion shows and the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Romijn successfully moved into acting, most notably playing the shape-shifting mutant Mystique in the ‘X-Men’ films, a role that required hours of makeup to create her character’s signature blue appearance. More recently, she’s taken on prominent roles in television series like ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘The Librarians’.

Famke Janssen

I’ve always been fascinated by Famke Janssen’s journey! She started out as a model in the Netherlands, even working with iconic brands like Chanel, but she didn’t stop there. She actually went back to school, studying writing and literature at Columbia University, before deciding to pursue acting. I first really noticed her as the incredibly memorable villain in ‘GoldenEye’, and that role definitely launched her career! It was so cool to then see her become so well-known as Jean Grey in the ‘X-Men’ films, and she’s consistently worked in both movies and television ever since, including starring in ‘Hemlock Grove’. It’s inspiring to see someone reinvent themselves so successfully.

Brooke Shields

Brooke Shields started her career as a baby, appearing in commercials when she was just eleven months old. She became internationally known thanks to her memorable, and sometimes controversial, ads for Calvin Klein jeans. As a young teenager, she starred in the films ‘Pretty Baby’ and ‘The Blue Lagoon,’ quickly becoming a major star. After taking time off to study at Princeton University, she returned to acting with the sitcom ‘Suddenly Susan.’ Now, after more than five decades in the business, she continues to be a well-known and respected figure in entertainment.

Andie MacDowell

Andie MacDowell’s career began when she was spotted by a modeling scout in Los Angeles. She quickly became a successful model, working with brands like L’Oreal and Calvin Klein throughout the 1980s. Though her first film role in ‘Greystoke’ had its audio redubbed, she soon established herself as a talented actress in independent films. She earned a Golden Globe nomination for ‘Sex, Lies, and Videotape’ and went on to star in the beloved film ‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’. She remains a consistent presence in both television and movies today.

Kim Basinger

Kim Basinger started her career at sixteen when she moved to New York City and signed with the renowned Ford Models agency. She became a highly successful model in the 1970s, appearing on many magazine covers and in numerous commercials. She then moved to Los Angeles to become an actress and quickly gained attention with a role in the James Bond film ‘Never Say Never Again’. Her career peaked when she won an Academy Award for her work in ‘L.A. Confidential’. She’s celebrated as one of the most accomplished models to successfully become a respected dramatic actress.

Sharon Stone

Sharon Stone began her career as a beauty pageant winner and then worked as a model for Ford Models in New York and Europe. She did some commercial work, appearing in ads for hair products and diet soda, before getting a small part in the film ‘Stardust Memories’. Her big break came with the hit thriller ‘Basic Instinct’, which launched her to international stardom. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in Martin Scorsese’s ‘Casino’ and continues to work in film and television today.

Rene Russo

Rene Russo’s career began unexpectedly when she was discovered at a Rolling Stones concert in 1972. She quickly became a highly sought-after model, gracing the cover of Vogue multiple times and becoming a prominent figure in the fashion industry. Later, in her thirties, she pursued acting. She made a memorable debut in the comedy ‘Major League’, showcasing her talent for film. Russo continued to star in blockbuster movies such as ‘The Thomas Crown Affair’ and ‘Lethal Weapon’. After taking some time off, she made a strong comeback with her performance in ‘Nightcrawler’.

Geena Davis

Before becoming an actress, Geena Davis started out as a model, appearing in catalogs like Ann Taylor and even working as a window mannequin. A casting director spotted her in a Victoria’s Secret catalog and invited her to audition for the film ‘Tootsie,’ which launched her career. She went on to star in popular movies such as ‘The Fly’ and ‘Beetlejuice,’ and later won an Academy Award for her performance in ‘The Accidental Tourist.’ Davis is also celebrated for her role as a feminist icon in ‘Thelma and Louise,’ and is a dedicated advocate for gender equality in the media.

Uma Thurman

I remember first noticing Uma Thurman in magazines when she was really young – she was already on the cover of British Vogue as a teenager! She’s always had this incredible presence, which is probably why filmmakers cast her in something like ‘Dangerous Liaisons’ early on. But she really blew up when she worked with Quentin Tarantino on ‘Pulp Fiction’ – that performance was amazing and even got her an Oscar nomination! Of course, then came ‘Kill Bill,’ and that cemented her status as a true icon. I think she’s definitely one of the most memorable action and dramatic actresses of her generation.

Liv Tyler

I’ve been a fan of Liv Tyler for years! She actually started modeling when she was just fourteen, but it was appearing in Aerosmith – her dad’s band! – that made her realize acting was her passion. I remember being blown away by her in ‘Stealing Beauty’; she just seemed so naturally gifted. Of course, everyone knows her as Arwen from ‘The Lord of the Rings,’ which really launched her into international stardom. Since then, she’s been in everything from big action movies like ‘Armageddon’ to the really thought-provoking series ‘The Leftovers.’ What I admire most is how beautiful she is, but also how she always picks interesting and varied roles – she’s a truly versatile actress.

Olga Kurylenko

Olga Kurylenko’s career began when she was scouted as a model in Moscow at age thirteen. She moved to Paris a few years later and quickly found success, appearing on the covers of magazines like Elle and Madame Figaro. After starting her acting career in France, she gained international recognition as a Bond girl in ‘Quantum of Solace’. Since then, she’s starred in major films such as ‘Oblivion’ and ‘Black Widow’. Because of her diverse background, she’s able to work on projects in multiple languages.

Jaime King

Jaime King began her career as a model in the 1990s, known professionally as James King. She graced the pages of magazines like Vogue and Seventeen before pursuing acting. She appeared in films such as ‘Pearl Harbor’ and ‘Sin City’, and later gained recognition as the star of the TV series ‘Hart of Dixie’. King has often discussed the difficulties of moving from a successful modeling career to being taken seriously as an actress.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne rose to fame as a top supermodel in the early 2010s, winning the Model of the Year award twice. She modeled for nearly every major fashion house and became the face of many luxury brands. After a small role in ‘Anna Karenina’, she starred in ‘Paper Towns’ and ‘Suicide Squad’. More recently, she’s concentrated on acting, including a role in the fantasy series ‘Carnival Row’, and has shifted her career from modeling to creative work in film.

Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp started her career working with Chanel, just like her mother, Vanessa Paradis. She did a lot of work for the brand, appearing in fashion campaigns and magazines, before landing her first film role in ‘Tusk’. Since then, she’s been in several smaller films and period pieces like ‘The King’. Her career gained more attention when she starred in the TV show ‘The Idol’, and she continues to work as a model while also building her acting career.

Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy’s career began unexpectedly when a modeling scout spotted her walking her dog near Harrods in London. After a short stint as a model, she gained critical acclaim for her role in the horror film ‘The Witch.’ She became internationally famous starring in the Netflix series ‘The Queen’s Gambit.’ Known for her striking appearance and powerful performances, she’s now one of Hollywood’s most in-demand actresses, with roles in films like ‘The Northman’ and ‘Furiosa’.

Elizabeth Hurley

Elizabeth Hurley rose to international fame in 1994 thanks to the iconic safety pin dress she wore to a movie premiere. Before this, she’d already worked as a model and became a long-standing face of Estée Lauder. She went on to act in popular films like the ‘Austin Powers’ series and ‘Bedazzled,’ and later starred in the television drama ‘The Royals.’ Hurley is frequently held up as a perfect example of how a single, memorable fashion moment can kickstart a decades-long career.

Gemma Ward

Discovered at fourteen, Gemma Ward quickly became a successful model, famously appearing on the cover of American Vogue at a record-young age. She was a leading face in the early 2000s modeling scene, known for her delicate, doll-like features. Later, she shifted her focus to acting, with roles in films like ‘The Strangers,’ ‘Pirates of the Caribbean,’ and ‘The Great Gatsby.’ After a period away from the spotlight, she’s returned to both modeling and acting for occasional projects.

Abbey Lee

Abbey Lee began her career as a successful fashion model, working with famous brands like Gucci and Chanel. She later transitioned to acting, making a strong impression with her first role in ‘Mad Max: Fury Road’. She followed that up with a captivating and unsettling performance in the horror film ‘The Neon Demon’. Abbey Lee continues to be recognized for choosing challenging and often dark roles, as seen in her work on the series ‘Lovecraft Country’. Her career shift is notable for her preference for unconventional projects.

Devon Aoki

Devon Aoki began her modeling career at thirteen and quickly rose to prominence, becoming a face of Versace by sixteen. Known as one of the leading petite models, she collaborated with many famous designers. She later transitioned into acting, appearing in films like ‘2 Fast 2 Furious’ and playing the memorable character Miho in ‘Sin City’. Her distinctive look made her particularly well-suited for visually dynamic action movies. Though she stepped back from acting to prioritize her family, her early film roles are still widely recognized.

Angie Harmon

Angie Harmon started her career as a teen model after winning a contest with Seventeen magazine. She quickly became successful, working with famous designers like Giorgio Armani and appearing on magazine covers. A random meeting with David Hasselhoff on a flight led to her first acting job on ‘Baywatch Nights’. While she’s known for many roles, she’s most famous for playing Abbie Carmichael on ‘Law & Order’ and later starred in the hit show ‘Rizzoli & Isles’.

Mischa Barton

Mischa Barton started her career as a child model, working with Ford agency and appearing in commercials for brands like Calvin Klein. She quickly moved into acting, landing roles in films such as ‘The Sixth Sense’ and ‘Notting Hill’. She became a teen star thanks to her role as Marissa Cooper on the popular TV show ‘The O.C.’. Her experience in the fashion world helped her handle the attention that came with her television success. Today, she continues to act in independent films and stage productions.

Chloë Sevigny

Chloë Sevigny started her career after being spotted on the street in New York City and began modeling for teen fashion magazines. She quickly became a prominent figure in the 1990s fashion world before transitioning to film with a role in the provocative movie ‘Kids’. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in ‘Boys Don’t Cry’ and later starred in the series ‘Big Love’. Known for her distinctive personal style, Sevigny has consistently championed independent and experimental films. Throughout her career, she’s worked as an actress, director, and fashion designer.

Tricia Helfer

Tricia Helfer began her career after winning the Ford Models Supermodel of the World contest in 1992. For over ten years, she was a successful model, walking the runways for famous designers in Paris and Milan and even appearing in the Victoria’s Secret fashion show. She then moved to Los Angeles to become an actress, and received praise for her role as Number Six in the new ‘Battlestar Galactica’ series. Since then, she’s been in many TV shows, including ‘Lucifer’ and ‘Van Helsing’.

Estella Warren

Estella Warren started her career as a synchronized swimmer for Canada. A talent scout noticed her, leading to a successful modeling career, including appearances in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and commercials for Chanel No 5. She then transitioned to acting, landing leading roles in films like ‘Planet of the Apes’ and ‘Driven’. Throughout the early 2000s, she continued to appear in both television and film, and her athletic and modeling background helped her excel in action-oriented roles.

Kelly Hu

I’ve always been a fan of Kelly Hu! It’s amazing to look back and see she started out as Miss Teen USA in ’85, then spent years modeling internationally in Japan and Italy. She really made a smooth move into acting, starting with a role on ‘Growing Pains’, but she truly blew up with action films. Most people probably recognize her from ‘The Scorpion King’ or as Lady Deathstrike in ‘X-Men 2’ – she was fantastic in both! But what a lot of people don’t realize is she’s also had a huge career doing voice work for cartoons and video games. And it all makes sense when you learn she has a background in martial arts – it really shines through in her action roles!

Ali Larter

Ali Larter started modeling when she was just thirteen, which led to a lot of travel during her teenage years. She first gained attention appearing as a character on the cover of Esquire magazine, and then landed a memorable role in the teen movie ‘Varsity Blues’. She became well-known in the horror genre thanks to the ‘Final Destination’ films, and later starred in the popular TV series ‘Heroes’, playing two different characters. She’s also been in several of the ‘Resident Evil’ movies.

Amber Valletta

Amber Valletta rose to fame as a top supermodel in the 1990s, gracing the cover of Vogue more than twelve times. She later moved into acting, starting with a role in ‘What Lies Beneath’ and then a leading part in ‘Hitch’. She also became known for her recurring role on the TV show ‘Revenge’ and appeared in the action movie ‘Transporter 2’. Throughout her career, Valletta has successfully combined her work as an actress with her passion for environmental activism and her status as a fashion icon, earning respect in both the entertainment and fashion worlds.

Bridget Moynahan

Bridget Moynahan started her career as a model, appearing in publications like Glamour and Elle after high school. She transitioned to acting with a guest appearance as Natasha on ‘Sex and the City’ and went on to star in films like ‘I Robot’ and ‘The Sum of All Fears’ with some of Hollywood’s biggest names. More recently, she’s found long-term success playing Erin Reagan on the television series ‘Blue Bloods’. She’s recognized for her timeless style and consistently strong performances on both the big and small screens.

Katherine Heigl

Katherine Heigl began her career as a child model when her aunt submitted her photos to an agency. She quickly appeared in commercials and catalogs, and later moved into acting with roles in films like ‘That Night’ and ‘My Father the Hero’. She became a household name playing Dr. Izzie Stevens on the hit TV show ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. This success led to leading roles in popular romantic comedies such as ‘Knocked Up’ and ‘27 Dresses’. She continues to work as both an actress and a producer in television and film.

January Jones

January Jones began her career as a model in New York City before relocating to Los Angeles to pursue acting. She initially gained experience through commercials and print work, including campaigns for Abercrombie & Fitch. Jones became widely recognized for her role as Betty Draper in the popular television series ‘Mad Men,’ which brought her critical acclaim and several award nominations. She has since also starred in films like ‘Unknown’ and ‘X-Men: First Class’.

Molly Sims

Molly Sims started her career as a popular fashion model, appearing often in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. She then hosted the fashion show ‘House of Style’ and transitioned into acting, becoming well-known for her role as Delinda Deline on the TV drama ‘Las Vegas’. Since then, she’s been in movies like ‘The Pink Panther 2’ and ‘The Wrong Missy’. Beyond acting, Molly has also found success as an author and business owner focused on beauty and wellness.

Michelle Yeoh

Michelle Yeoh started her career after winning Miss Malaysia in 1983, initially appearing in commercials. She quickly became a popular action star in Asia through her roles in Hong Kong martial arts films. Later, she gained international recognition with parts in films like ‘Tomorrow Never Dies’ and ‘Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon’. Most recently, she made history by winning an Academy Award for ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’. She’s known for her versatility as an actress and her impressive physical skills.

Margaret Qualley

Margaret Qualley began her career as a ballerina, then became a model, working with famous brands like Chanel. She ultimately chose to focus on acting, making her television debut in the HBO series ‘The Leftovers’. Qualley has earned praise for her work in the miniseries ‘Maid’ and the film ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’. Throughout her career, she’s been known for taking on demanding and intricate roles in both TV and movies, and is now recognized as one of the most promising young actresses working today.

Isabella Rossellini

Isabella Rossellini started her career as a journalist, but she became famous as a model for Lancôme, a cosmetics brand. She worked with them exclusively for fourteen years and graced the covers of countless magazines. While she first appeared in films in Italy, she gained international recognition after starring in ‘Blue Velvet’. Since then, she’s been in many films, including ‘Death Becomes Her’ and ‘Fearless’. Beyond acting, Rossellini is a talented filmmaker and writer, creating imaginative short films focused on the natural world.

Lauren Hutton

Lauren Hutton broke ground as a model, becoming the first to sign a major exclusive contract with a cosmetics brand. Throughout her extensive fashion career, she graced the cover of Vogue an impressive twenty-six times. She successfully moved into acting, earning acclaim for her authentic presence in films like ‘American Gigolo’ and ‘The Gambler’. Hutton continues to work as both a model and actress even into her seventies, and is widely admired for her enduring career and embracing natural beauty.

Christie Brinkley

Christie Brinkley is a world-renowned model who graced the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit three years in a row. For 25 years, she was the face of CoverGirl, making it one of the longest-lasting modeling contracts ever. She started her acting career with a memorable appearance in the film ‘National Lampoon’s Vacation’ and has since performed on Broadway and had a role on the TV show ‘Parks and Recreation’. Today, she continues to be a well-known personality and a successful businesswoman.

Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks started her career as a model at just fifteen years old, breaking barriers as the first African American woman featured on the covers of both GQ and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. She became a well-known Victoria’s Secret Angel and modeled in Paris and Milan for many years. In addition to modeling, Banks acted in films like ‘Higher Learning’ and the TV movie ‘Life Size’. She later became a successful media personality, creating and hosting ‘America’s Next Top Model’, as well as hosting a daytime talk show and ‘Dancing with the Stars’.

Iman

Iman’s career began when she was discovered by a photographer while studying at the University of Nairobi. She then moved to the United States and became a favorite model for designers like Yves Saint Laurent and Gianni Versace. She also acted in films such as ‘Out of Africa’ and ‘Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country,’ and famously played the queen in Michael Jackson’s ‘Remember the Time’ music video. Beyond modeling and acting, Iman is a successful entrepreneur and a leader in the beauty industry, creating a cosmetics line for a wide range of skin tones.

Gisele Bündchen

Gisele Bündchen is known for changing the look of fashion models, moving away from the thin, waif-like ‘heroin chic’ style and towards a more healthy and athletic appearance. For many years, she was the world’s highest-earning model and a key face of Victoria’s Secret. She also appeared in films, including ‘Taxi’ and a memorable role in ‘The Devil Wears Prada,’ though she primarily focused on modeling and environmental work. Even today, she’s considered one of the most important figures in fashion history.

Halle Berry

Halle Berry began her career as a model and beauty queen, winning the Miss Teen All American title and placing as a runner-up in Miss USA. She was also the first African American woman to compete in the Miss World pageant. Berry then started acting, first on television with ‘Living Dolls,’ and later in films. She achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first African American woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress, for her performance in ‘Monster’s Ball.’ Since then, she’s become a star in many popular movies, including the ‘X-Men’ series and the ‘John Wick’ films.

Jane Fonda

Jane Fonda started her career as a model, even appearing on the cover of Vogue twice, before dedicating herself to acting. She went to Paris to work with director Roger Vadim and became known for her role in the cult classic film ‘Barbarella’. She soon proved herself as a talented dramatic actress, winning two Academy Awards for her performances in ‘Klute’ and ‘Coming Home’. In addition to her film work, Fonda became popular for her exercise videos and her involvement in political causes. She continues to act in hit TV shows like ‘Grace and Frankie’.

Jessica Lange

Jessica Lange began her career as a model with the Wilhelmina agency in New York City, where she was noticed by a talent scout. She quickly rose to fame starring in the 1976 remake of ‘King Kong’. Lange demonstrated her acting range and won two Academy Awards for her roles in ‘Tootsie’ and ‘Blue Sky’. More recently, she’s gained a new following for her work on the ‘American Horror Story’ series. Beyond acting, Lange is a skilled photographer and has published several books featuring her photographs.

Cybill Shepherd

Cybill Shepherd began her career as a model, winning Model of the Year in 1968 and appearing on magazine covers and in commercials. This led to her first film role in ‘The Last Picture Show’, where she received praise for her acting. She continued to build her film career with a role in the famous movie ‘Taxi Driver’. Later, she became a television star, leading the popular show ‘Moonlighting’ with Bruce Willis. Throughout her long career, Cybill Shepherd has earned respect as an actress in both funny and serious roles.

Please share your favorite performance from these former models in the comments.

2026-01-12 20:52